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ingestible · for urinary health & uti prevention

Uva Ursi (Bearberry) Extract

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Gagyor 2021 Clinical Microbiology and Infection (PMID 34111592) - double-blind RCT of 398 women comparing uva ursi (arbutin 105 mg x 3 daily for 5 days) versus fosfomycin for uncomplicated UTI. The uva ursi group used 63.6% fewer antibiotic courses (p < 0.0001) but had a higher symptom burden and more cases of pyelonephritis (8 vs 2). Evidence for UTI prevention specifically is observational and mechanistic only.$10-$25 per treatment course

How to use

For short-term use only (maximum 5 days per episode, maximum 5 courses per year): take standardised uva ursi extract delivering 400-840 mg arbutin per day in divided doses. Must be taken with alkaline urine - eat a plant-rich diet or take 1/2 tsp sodium bicarbonate in water alongside, as arbutin converts to antimicrobial hydroquinone most efficiently in alkaline conditions. Drink plenty of water. Not recommended for long-term preventive daily use.

How it works

Uva ursi leaves contain arbutin, a glycoside hydrolysed in the body to release hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is excreted by the kidneys into urine where, in an alkaline environment, it exerts direct antimicrobial activity against common uropathogens including E. coli, Proteus, and Klebsiella. The plant also contains tannins with anti-inflammatory and astringent effects on bladder mucosa.

Where to buy

Nature's Way Uva Ursi Standardized, Herb Pharm Uva Ursi Extract (liquid), Gaia Herbs Uva Ursi (leaf capsules). Available at health food stores, iHerb, Amazon, and Vitacost.

Typical cost: $10-$25 per treatment course

Safety notes

Use only short-term (5 days maximum per course, no more than 5 times per year). Hydroquinone is potentially toxic with prolonged use and has been classified as a possible carcinogen with long-term exposure by the European Medicines Agency. Contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding - hydroquinone may be fetotoxic. Contraindicated in kidney disease, as hydroquinone is renally cleared and may accumulate. Avoid in children under 12. Not a substitute for antibiotics in confirmed pyelonephritis - seek medical care immediately if fever, chills, or back pain develop.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Gagyor 2021 - Clin Microbiol Infect (PMID 34111592)

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.